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The Types of Breast Implants as Explained by Dr. Alissa M. Shulman of Sovereign Plastic Surgery in Sarasota, FL

There are several types of breast implants. Implant type is one factor that board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Alissa M. Shulman takes into account when customizing a patient’s breast augmentation procedure. By taking a few minutes to learn about the various types of implants before you meet with Dr. Shulman at Sovereign Plastic Surgery in Sarasota, FL, you’ll likely feel better prepared for your initial consultation.

Silicone or saline filling

When planning your breast enhancement surgery, one of the first decisions you’ll need to make is whether to go with silicone or saline breast implants. The current version of silicone implants, which was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2006, consists of a silicone shell filled with a cohesive silicone gel. Saline implants consist of a similar silicone shell filled with a saline solution.

Some patients believe that silicone implants look and feel more natural than saline implants. However, because silicone implants are already inflated when they are placed during surgery, the surgical incision must be large enough to accommodate them. Saline implants, on the other hand, can be implanted through a small incision and filled later. This approach typically results in less scarring. Dr. Shulman can tell you more about the pros and cons of the two main types of breast implants and help you decide which would be best for you.

Smooth or textured surface

Breast implants are also available with two different types of surfaces: smooth and textured. Smooth breast implants are designed to move freely within the implant capsule, which some patients believe allows for a more natural feel. In contrast, textured implants are designed to bond with the natural breast tissue so that the implant will be held firmly in place. There are a variety of other considerations related to implant surface types, and Dr. Shulman can elaborate on those when you meet with her in Sarasota, Florida.

Implant placement options

In addition to recommending an implant filling and texture for you, Dr. Shulman can discuss placement. For instance, breast implants can be placed either beneath the pectoral muscle or on top of the muscle and directly under the breast glands. Optimal placement generally depends on a patient’s anatomy and other individual factors. The surgical incisions can be made around the areola, just above the breast crease, or under the armpit. Dr. Shulman can help you determine the right surgical approach for your specific body type and unique needs.

If you’d like to learn more about the various types of breast implants, contact Sovereign Plastic Surgery to schedule an appointment with Dr. Shulman at her office in Sarasota, FL.